With the date for Eid ul Fitr 2024 announced in Morocco, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs confirmed that the crescent moon was sighted, and Eid will be today, Wednesday, April 10.
Literally meaning a “festival” or “feast” in Arabic, there are two major Eids in the Islamic calendar per year – Eid al-Fitr, which is a three-day-long festival and is known as the “Lesser” or “Smaller Eid,” earlier in the year and Eid al-Adha, which is four-days-long and is known as the “Greater Eid”, which comes later.
The moon for Shawwal, marking the conclusion of Ramadan had been forecast by astronomers that the moon would easily be seen, marking the Lunar months, which lasts between 29 and 30 days. Muslims usually have to wait until the night before Eid to verify its date, tough other countries follow independent sightings.
Eid al-Fitr sees up to three days of celebrations that include special morning prayers, as people begin greeting each other with Eid Mubarak (Blessed Eid) and a variety of formal embraces, sweet dishes at home and gifts that are given to children and those in need. And, during this time, Muslims are encouraged to forgive and seek forgiveness.
As Allah's gift for Muslims worldwide, for fasting during Ramadan, this year, worldwide celebrations will be taking part in countries like Pakistan, India, Lithuania, Solomon Islands, Denmark, Rwanda, Maldives, Hong Kong, Armenia, Canada, Mozambique, China, Botswana, Jordan, Bolivia, Kuwait, South Korea and the UK. In many countries with large Muslim populations, Eid al-Fitr is a national holiday, with schools, offices and businesses closed, so that families, friends and neighbours can enjoy the celebrations together.
Muslims, especially in the U.S. and the U.K - may request to have the day off from school or work to travel or celebrate with family and friends, whilst, in countries like Egypt and Pakistan, homes will be decorated with lanterns, twinkling lights and flowers.
